Tension projection screen assembly

ABSTRACT

A projection screen assembly is disclosed including a projection screen and a projection screen frame. The projection screen frame includes a plurality of projection screen frame modules that may be coupled together to provide a projection frame for projection screens of different sizes.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the priority benefit of U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 61,186,796 to Risher, filed Jun. 12, 2009,titled “Tensioned Projection Screen,” the entire disclosure of which isexpressly incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates a projection screen assembly, moreparticularly, a projection screen assembly having a screen held bytension on a frame.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Projection screen assemblies are provided to display images, typicallyprojected from a source, such as a projector. The images often depictmovies or other forms of entertainment, but can also depict otherimages, such as advertising.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a projection screenkit is provided including a plurality of projection screens including afirst projection screen having a first viewing area adapted to displayan image projected onto the first projection screen and a secondprojection screen having a second viewing area adapted to display animage projected onto the second projection screen. The kit furtherincludes a plurality of frame modules adapted to be assembled to definean assembled frame for each of the plurality of the plurality ofprojection screens. Each assembled frame is sized to support at leastone of the plurality of projection screens. Each assembled frame for theplurality of projection screens requires a number of frame modules tosupport at least one of the plurality of projection screens. The totalnumber of frame modules in the kit is less than the sum of the framemodules required to assemble all of the plurality of assembled frames atone time.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure projection screenapparatus is provided including a projection screen including a viewingsurface adapted to display an image projected onto the projection screenand a plurality of connectors, and a projection screen frame having anoutward facing perimeter surface and a plurality of connectors coupledto the outward facing perimeter surface. The plurality of connectors ofthe projection screen connect with the plurality of connectors of theprojection screen frame to connect the projection screen to theprojection screen frame.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided that includes a projection screen includinga viewing surface adapted to display an image projected onto theprojection screen and a plurality of connectors, and a projection screenframe supporting the projection screen. The projection screen includes aplurality of frame modules. Adjacent frame modules are coupled togetherto define a joint therebetween. Each frame module has a first end and asecond end positioned clockwise of the first end. The projection screenframe further includes a plurality of connectors including a firstconnector coupled to each frame module adjacent to the first end of eachframe module and a second connector coupled to each frame moduleadjacent the second end of each frame module. All of the firstconnectors are positioned the same distance from the first ends of theframe module to which it is coupled. All of the second connectors arepositioned the same distance from the second ends of the frame module towhich it is coupled.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen including aviewing surface adapted to display an image projected onto theprojection screen and a plurality of bungee connectors extending from aperimeter of the projection screen, and a projection screen framesupporting the projection screen. The bungee connectors extend to theprojection screen frame.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen including aviewing surface adapted to display an image projected onto theprojection screen and a plurality of loop connectors extending from aperimeter of the projection screen, and a projection screen frameincluding a plurality of posts. The loop connectors of the projectionscreen extend around the plurality of posts to support the projectionscreen.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen including aviewing surface adapted to display an image projected onto theprojection screen and a plurality of bungee connectors. Each bungeeconnector has at least one terminal end. The projection screen furtherincludes a projection screen frame supporting the projection screen. Thebungee connectors extend to the projection screen frame.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen including aviewing surface adapted to display an image projected onto theprojection screen and a plurality of bungee connectors permanentlycoupled to the projection screen, and a projection screen framesupporting the projection screen. The bungee connectors coupling theprojection screen to the projection screen frame.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen including afirst sheet defining a perimeter of the projection screen, at least onemolded plastic sheet coupled to the first sheet, and at least oneconnector coupled to the at least one molded plastic sheet, and aprojection screen frame supporting the projection screen. The at leastone connector couples the projection screen to the projection screenframe.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus including a projection screen including a first sheetdefining a perimeter of the projection screen and at least one secondsheet coupled to the first sheet. The second sheet having a stiffnessthat increases from an inner end to an outer end. The projection screenfurther includes at least one connector coupled to the at least onesecond sheet. The projection screen apparatus further includes aprojection screen frame supporting the projection screen. The at leastone connector couples the projection screen to the projection screenframe.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen including afirst sheet defining a perimeter of the projection screen, at least onesecond sheet coupled to the first sheet, and a bungee received in the atleast one second sheet, and a projection screen frame supporting theprojection screen. The at least one bungee couples the projection screento the projection screen frame.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen includes afirst sheet defining a perimeter of the projection screen, at least onetube, and a cord received in the tube, and a projection screen framesupporting the projection screen. The at least one cord couples theprojection screen to the projection screen frame.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen including aviewing surface adapted to display an image projected onto theprojection screen and a plurality of connectors, and a projection screenframe supporting the projection screen. The projection screen frameincludes a plurality of posts. The plurality of connectors connect tothe plurality of posts to couple the projection screen to the projectionscreen frame.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including at least one projection screenincluding a viewing surface adapted to display an image projected ontothe projection screen and a plurality of connectors, an accessory havingat least one connector, and a projection screen frame supporting theprojection screen. The projection screen frame includes a plurality ofconnectors. The plurality of connectors of the projection screen connectto the plurality of connectors of the projection screen frame to couplethe projection screen to the projection screen frame. At least one ofthe plurality of connectors of the projection screen frame connects toat least one connector of the at least one projection screen at leastone connector of the accessory.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a first projection screenincluding a viewing surface adapted to display an image projected ontothe first projection screen, a second projection screen including aviewing surface adapted to display an image projected onto the secondprojection screen, and a projection screen frame supporting the firstand second projection screens with the viewing surface of the firstprojection screen facing away from the viewing surface of the secondprojection screen.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen including aviewing surface adapted to display an image projected onto theprojection screen and a plurality of connectors spaced apart by auniform distance, and a projection screen frame supporting theprojection screen. The projection screen includes a plurality of framemodules. Each frame module has a length that is a multiple of theuniform distance.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen having aheight, a width and a thickness, and a projection screen framesupporting the projection screen. The height of the projection screen isgreater than a height of the height of the projection screen frame bymore than the thickness of the projection screen.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen adapted todisplay an image projected onto the projection screen, a projectionscreen frame supporting the projection screen, at least one legsupporting the projection screen frame on the ground, and at least oneconnector coupling the at least one leg to the projection screen frame.At least one of an outer surface of the leg and a surface of theconnector define a junction including a groove and a tooth received inthe groove.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen adapted todisplay an image projected onto the projection screen, a projectionscreen frame supporting the projection screen, at least one legsupporting the projection screen frame on the ground, and at least oneconnector coupling the at least one leg to the projection screen frame.The connector wraps around at least a portion of the at least one leg.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen adapted todisplay an image projected onto the projection screen, a projectionscreen frame supporting the projection screen, at least one legsupporting the projection screen frame on the ground, and at least oneconnector having base and a pair of arms. The base receives a portion ofat least one of the projection screen frame and the leg and the pair ofarms cooperate to receive the other of the projection screen frame andthe leg between the arms.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided that includes a projection screen adaptedto display an image projected onto the projection screen and a pluralityof connectors and a projection screen frame supporting the projectionscreen. The projection screen includes a plurality of connectorscoupling to the plurality of connectors of the projection screen. Theprojection screen apparatus further includes at least one drape and atleast one drape support connected to at least one of the plurality ofconnectors of the projection screen frame and support the drape.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen adapted todisplay an image projected onto the projection screen and a projectionscreen frame supporting the projection screen. The projection screenframe includes a plurality of frame modules having longitudinal axes.Adjacent frame modules cooperate to define a joint therebetween. Theprojection screen apparatus further includes at least one frame couplercoupling together adjacent frame modules cooperating to define a joint.The at least one coupler pulls the adjacent frame modules axially towardeach other.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen adapted todisplay an image projected onto the projection screen and a projectionscreen frame supporting the projection screen. The projection screenframe including a plurality of frame modules including first and secondadjacent frame modules cooperating to define a joint therebetween. Thefirst adjacent frame module includes a slot. The projection screenapparatus further includes at least one frame coupler coupling togetheradjacent frame modules that cooperate to define a joint. The at leastone frame coupler including a plate positioned in the slot and athreaded member coupled to the second adjacent frame module andpositioned in a threaded aperture of the plate.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen adapted todisplay an image projected onto the projection screen, and a projectionscreen frame supporting the projection screen. The projection screenincluding a plurality of frame modules including first and secondadjacent frame modules coupled together and cooperating to define ajoint therebetween. The first and second adjacent frame modules havelongitudinal axes. The first adjacent frame module includes an axiallyextending protrusion having a surface defining an acute angle with theaxis of the first adjacent frame module. The second adjacent framemodule includes a recess receiving the axially extending protrusion ofthe first adjacent frame module. The recess is defined by a surface thatcontacts the surface of the axially extending protrusion.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen adapted todisplay an image projected onto the projection screen. The projectionscreen has a top portion, bottom portion, and side portions extendingbetween the top and bottom portions. The projection screen apparatusfurther includes a projection screen frame supporting the projectionscreen in a vertical position. The projection screen frame has a topportion positioned adjacent to the top portion of the projection screen,a bottom portion positioned adjacent to the bottom portion of theprojection screen, and side portions extending between the top portionand the bottom portion of the projection screen. The side portions ofthe projection screen frame are positioned adjacent to the side portionsof the projection screen. The top portion of the projection screen framehas resilient feet.

According to another aspect of thee the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen adapted todisplay an image projected onto the projection screen, a projectionscreen frame supporting the projection screen, and at least one legsupporting the projection screen frame on the ground. The at least oneleg having a plurality of frame modules including a horizontal memberand a vertical member that is interchangeable with the horizontalmember.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen adapted todisplay an image projected onto the projection screen and a projectionscreen frame supporting the projection screen. The projection screenincludes a plurality of frame modules including first and secondadjacent frame modules coupled together by a coupler and cooperating todefine a joint therebetween. The projection screen apparatus furtherincludes a stiffener extending across the joint to further couple thefirst and second adjacent members together.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a projectionscreen apparatus is provided including a projection screen adapted todisplay an image projected onto the projection screen, a projectionscreen frame including a plurality of frame modules supporting theprojection screen, and at least one leg including a plurality of framemodules supporting the projection screen frame on the ground. At leastone of the frame modules of the at least one leg is interchangeable withthe plurality of frame modules of the projection screen frame.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method ofconstructing a projection screen apparatus is provided. The methodincludes the steps of receiving at least one pre-manufactured projectionscreen and a plurality of pre-manufactured frame modules, selecting asubset of the plurality of pre-manufactured frame modules sufficient toconstruct a projection screen frame corresponding to the at least onepre-manufactured projection screen, constructing the projection screenframe using the subset of the plurality of pre-manufactured framemodules, and coupling the pre-manufactured projection screen to theprojection screen frame.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method offacilitating constructing a projection screen apparatus is provided. Themethod includes the steps of receiving a projection screen and aplurality of pre-manufactured frame modules, selecting a subset of theplurality of pre-manufactured frame modules sufficient to construct aprojection screen frame corresponding to the at least onepre-manufactured projection screen, providing the subset of theplurality of pre-manufactured frame modules to another party, andproviding instructions on the construction of the projection screenframe from the pre-manufactured frame modules to the party.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method offacilitating construction of a projection screen apparatus is provided.The method includes the steps of providing a projection screen requiringa projection screen frame of a predetermined size to support theprojection screen during use, providing a plurality of frame modulesgreater than the number of projection frame modules necessary toconstruct the projection screen frame, sending the projection screen toanother party, and sending the plurality of frame modules to the partyfor use in constructing the projection screen frame to support theprojection screen during use.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method offacilitating construction of a projection screen apparatus is providedincluding the steps of collecting a plurality of projection screensrequiring a plurality of projection screen frames of a predeterminedsize to support the plurality of projection screens during use,collecting a plurality of projection screen frame modules less than thenumber of projection screen frame modules necessary to construct theplurality of projection screen frames at one time, providing theplurality of projection screens to another party, and providing theplurality of frame modules to the party for use in constructing at leastone of the plurality of projection screen frames.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method ofconstructing a projection screen apparatus is provided. The methodincludes the steps of providing a projection screen and a plurality offrame modules, the plurality of frame modules including at least twoidentical frame modules, constructing a projection screen frame with theplurality of frame modules including at least one identical framemodule, supporting the projection screen with the projection screenframe, constructing at least one leg with the plurality of frame modulesincluding at least one identical frame module, and supporting theprojection screen frame with the at least one leg.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above-mentioned and other features of the present disclosure willbecome more apparent and will be better understood by reference to thefollowing description of embodiments of the present disclosure taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view of a projection screen assembly showingthe assembly including a pair of legs, a frame supported by the pair oflegs, and a screen supported by the frame to display an image projectedby a projector;

FIG. 2 is a view of a diagram showing a corner module and a plurality offrame modules and four frames assembled using various combinations ofthe corner modules and frame modules to create different sizes andformats of frames;

FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of a frame of the projection screenassembly of FIG. 1 showing four corner modules and four frame modulesassembled to create a frame;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a corner module of FIG. 3 and two framemodules coupled to the corner module;

FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 4 showing the two frame modules alignedwith the corner module for coupling thereto;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the corner module of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the corner module of FIG. 4 takenalong line 7-7 of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is an assembly view of the corner module of FIG. 4;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a frame module of FIG. 4;

FIG. 10 is an assembly view of the frame module of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a side elevation view of a leg of the projection screenassembly showing the leg including a T-shaped base module and a threeframe modules coupled to the T-shaped base module;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the T-shaped base module;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a portion of the leg of FIG. 11 and theframe of FIG. 3 showing the frame coupled to the leg with a clamp and aportion of the screen positioned over the clamp;

FIG. 14 is a view similar to FIG. 13 with the frame removed for clarity;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the clamp of FIG. 13;

FIG. 16A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 16-16 of FIG. 13;

FIG. 16B is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 16A;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the frame and screen showing the screencoupled to the frame with a pair of studs and elastic loops;

FIG. 18 is a side elevation view of the screen and three elastic loopscoupled to the screen with three stitch patterns;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 19-19 of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is view similar to FIG. 1 showing the frame having a pairof—T-shaped base modules replacing the upper corner modules of theframe, another pair of T-shaped base modules coupled to the previouslymentioned T-shaped base modules, frame modules coupled to thelater-mentioned T-shaped base modules, and a drape (shown in phantom)supported by the frame to border the screen also supported by the frame;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a pair of frame modules coupledend-to-end to form a joint therebetween and a third frame module coupledto the pair of frame modules to span and stiffen the joint;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an projection screen kit including acontainer, multiple screens and frame components, and a frame diagramprovided on the container;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 21 showing a pair of barscoupled to the pair of frame modules to span and stiffen the joint;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing a plate and elastic cord providedto couple the screen to the studs mounted on the frame;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view showing a plate and elastic cord providedto couple the screen to the studs mounted on the frame;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of another clamp;

FIG. 27 is a top plan view of the clamp of FIG. 26 positioned adjacentto a frame member with arms of the clamp in an open position;

FIG. 28 is a view similar to FIG. 27 showing the arms swinging toward aclosed position as the clamp is pushed over the frame member;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of an the opposite ends of an alternativeembodiment frame module;

FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment loopconnecting plate;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a drape support;

FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of the drape support of FIG. 31;

FIG. 33 is a side elevation view of the drape support of FIG. 31;

FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view showing a pair of loops coupled to asingle post;

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of showing a pair of alternativeembodiment drape supports;

FIG. 36 is an end view showing a bottom of a upside down U-shaped drapesupport of FIG. 35; and

FIG. 37 is a side elevation view of a portion of an alternativeembodiment drape support of FIG. 35 coupled to a post of the projectionscreen frame.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding partsthroughout the several views. Although the drawings representembodiments of the present invention, the drawings are not necessarilyto scale and certain features may be exaggerated in order to betterillustrate and explain the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The embodiments disclosed below are not intended to be exhaustive orlimit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the followingdetailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and describedso that others skilled in the art may utilize their teachings.

According to the present disclosure, a projection screen apparatus 10 isprovided to display images projected by a projector 12. Typically,projection screen apparatus 10 includes a pair of legs 14 to supportitself on a floor of a structure. According to alternative embodimentsof the present disclosure, projection screen apparatus 10 may besuspended on a wall, ceiling, or other structure using fasteners,cables, or other suitable devices.

As shown in FIG. 1, projector 12 is positioned on the audience side ofprojection screen apparatus 10 to reflect back the images projected byprojector 12 to an audience. According to alternative installations,projector 12 is positioned for a rear projection application on the backside of projection screen apparatus 10 so that images projected byprojector 12 are displayed through projection screen apparatus 10 to theaudience. In some installations, speakers (not shown) are positionedbehind the projection screen apparatus 10 so that the sound istransmitted through projection screen apparatus 10.

As shown in FIG. 1, projection screen apparatus 10 further includes aperimeter, projection screen frame 16 and a projection screen 18tensioned on frame 16. Exemplary Frame 16 includes four corner framemodules 22 and four extended frame members 24 extending between cornermodules 22 as shown in FIG. 3. Each frame member 24 is made of one ormore frame modules 26. The length and number of frame modules 26 foreach frame members 24 depends upon the size of screen 18 used in aparticular application, such as a tradeshow.

As shown in FIG. 2, frame modules 26 are provided in various sizesincluding modules 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D, 26E, and 26F. Other sizes andlengths of modules 26 may also be provided. Also shown diagrammaticallyin FIG. 2 are several frames 16 assembled using different sizes andnumbers of frame modules 26 and various screens 18 (shown from the rear)supported by frames 16. Each frame 16 has a different height and widthdepending on which modules 26 were used. As an example, the below tablesillustrates various combinations of frame modules 26 used to createdifferent size frames 16A-16D shown in FIG. 2.

Frame/ module 26A 26B 26C 26D 26E 26F 22 Screen 16A — — — 6 2 2 4 18A16B 2 — 2 2 4 2 4 18B 16C — — — 2 10 — 4 18C 16D — — — 4 4 6 4 18D Kit242 2 2 4 10 6 4 18A, 18B, min. 18C, and 18D Kit 242 3 3 5 11 7 5 18A,18B, min. + 1 18C, and 18D

Different combinations of frame modules 26 can be used to assembletaller/shorter and/or wider/narrower frames 16. For example in frame16B, frame module 26B could replace frame module 26A to create a widerframe. As shown in the above table, a corresponding screen 18A, 18B,18C, 18D is provided with each frame 16A, 16B, 16C, 16D. Similarly, ifdifferent modules 26 are provided to create different frame sizes,different sizes of screen 18 may be provided to correspond to thedifferently sized frame 16.

Frame 16 is shown in FIG. 3 to include four corner modules 22 and fourframe members 24 each including a single module 26 for simplicity ofexplanation. Normally, each frame member 24 will include multiplemodules 26 as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 2. Each corner module 22and each frame module 26 includes male portion 28 and female portion 30as shown in FIG. 5. Each male portion 28 is configured to couple to arespective female portion 30. For example as shown in FIG. 5, maleportion 28 of corner module 22 is configured to couple to a femaleportion 30 of an adjacent frame module 26 and female portion 30 ofcorner module 22 is configured to couple to a male portion 28 of anadjacent frame module 26. Similarly, male portion 28 of frame module 26is configured to couple to a female portion 30 of an adjacent cornermodule 22 (or frame module 26) and female portion 30 of frame module 26is configured to couple to a male portion 28 of an adjacent cornermodule 22 (or frame module 26).

Each male portion 28 includes a threaded assembly or coupler 32 thatthreads into or is coupled to a nut or coupler 34 of female portion 30.Once coupled together by couplers 32, 34, corner modules 22 and framemodules 26 create substantially rigid frame 16 as shown in FIGS. 3 and4.

As shown in FIGS. 5-8, each corner module 22 includes a pair of outerperimeter tubes 36, inner perimeter tube 38, and inner perimeter tubesegments 40 that cooperate to define segmented, inner perimeter tube 42,all of which are welded together to form tubular frame 44. Corner module22 further includes a cast, corner 46 that is inserted into respectiveouter perimeter tubes 36, preferably before welding.

Each male portion 28 includes a pair of inserts 48 sized to fit withinthe ends of respective tubes 36, 38 and a pair of posts 50 received ininserts 48. Inserts 48 are preferably molded of plastic and posts 50 arepreferably steel and over-molded into inserts 48 during the moldingprocess. As shown in FIG. 7, each post 50 includes a shoulder 52 thatprevents withdrawal of posts 50 from respective inserts 48. Each insert48 includes a raised shoulder or rim 54 that mates with female portion30 as discussed below.

Each male portion 28 further includes a pair of split collars or plates56 fastened to tubes 36, 38 with fasteners 58 that extend through tubes36, 38 into inserts 48. Collars 56 wrap around tubes 36, 38 to provide arelatively flat profile. Collars 56 further include channel 60 andgroove 62 that receive coupler 32 as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.

Coupler 32 includes a threaded post or bolt 64 having a threaded shank66, knob 68, and hex head 70. Coupler 32 further includes clip 72 thatfits within groove 74 in shank 66 and collar 76. Clip 72 is received ingroove 62 and prevents shank 66 from translating up or down collars 56during rotation of shank 66 as described below. Collar 76 receives shank66 and distributes the load applied by threaded post 64 during couplingof coupler 32 of male portion 28 with coupler 34 of female portion 30 asdescribed below.

Each female portion 30 includes a pair of inserts 78 sized to fit withinthe ends of respective tubes 36, 42 and defining a pair of apertures 80sized to receive posts 50 of male portions 28. Inserts 78 are preferablymolded of plastic and includes an annular channel 82 that mates shoulder52 of inserts 48 of male portions 28.

Each female portion 30 further includes a pair of split collars orplates 84 fastened to tubes 36, 42 with fasteners 58 that extend throughtubes 36, 42 into inserts 78. Collars 84 wrap around tubes 36, 42 toprovide a relatively flat profile. Collars 84 further include channel 86and groove 88 that receive coupler 32 as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.

Coupler 34 includes plate 90 having a threaded aperture 92 that receivesthreaded shank 66 of post 64 of coupler 32. Plate 90 is positioned ingroove 88 and receives shank 66 and distributes the load applied bythreaded post 64 during coupling of coupler 32 of male portion 28 withcoupler 34 of female portion 30.

An alternative embodiment coupler 34′ is shown in FIG. 29. Coupler 34 issimilar to coupler 34, but includes two bolts 64. Plate 90′ includes apair of threaded apertures 92 that receive threaded shanks 66 of bolts64.

Similar to corner module 22, frame modules 26 each include tubes 94.Frame modules 26 further includes inserts 48, 78 inserted within tubes94 and collars 56, 84 supporting couplers 32, 34. In addition tosupporting respective couplers 32, 34, collars 56, 84 also support tubes94 at a predetermined position. Each module 26 further includes a middlepair of collars or plates 96 that support tubes 94 at the predeterminedposition.

During assembly of frame 16, posts 50 of male portions 28 are alignedwith apertures 80 of female portions 30 and inserted therein. With thisalignment, threaded shank 66 of coupler 32 is aligned with threadedaperture 92 in plate 90 of coupler 34. An assembler turns post 64 byrotating knob 68 by hand or otherwise or uses a tool on hex head 70. Aspost 64 turns, shank 66 is drawn further into plate 90, which draws maleand female portions 28, 30 together until they are firmly locked as showin FIG. 4.

In addition to forming portions of frame 16, frame modules 26 may alsobe used to form portions of legs 14 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 11. Legs 14include a base module 98 and one or more frame modules 26. Each basemodule 98 includes a plurality of tubes 100, 102 and tube segments 104,106 that cooperate to define a segmented tube 108. Tubes 100, 102, 108are welded together to form tubular frame 109. Base module 98 includesmale coupler 32 and a pair of female couplers 34. As shown in FIGS. 1and 11, one or more frame modules 26 are coupled to base module 98 atfemale couplers 34 to form horizontal base 110 of legs 14 and one ormore frame modules 26 are coupled to base module 98 at male couplers 32to form vertical uprights 112 of legs 14.

Base modules 98 may also replace corner modules 22 to create a frame 16that supports drape 99. Drape 99 has an opening that allows screen 18 tobe seen by an audience, but otherwise covers border 182 of screen 18 andmost of frame 16. Additional base modules 98 are coupled to the basemodules 98 that replaced upper corner modules 22. Frame modules 26 arecoupled to these upper-most base modules 98 to create a cross bar 101 tosupport drape 99. Stiffening bars 218, 219, discussed below, can be usedto couple frame modules between the upper-most base modules 98 that havea female-to-female joint 221 there-between.

Frame 16 is coupled to uprights 112 of legs 14 as shown in FIG. 13 byone or more clamps or connectors 114 and hook 115. Clamps 114 arepreferably provided at a lower portion of frame 16, as shown in FIG. 13,and upper portion of frame 16. Clamps 114 wrap around either tubes 36 ofcorner modules 22, as shown in FIG. 13, or tubes 94 of frame modules 26to couple frame 16 to uprights 112. Optional hook 115 supports post 162on frame 16.

As shown in FIG. 16A, clamp 114 includes a U-shaped base 116, and a pairof L-shaped arms 118 pivotally attached to base 116 by a pair of hingepins 120. Clamp 114 further includes drive 122 having threaded post,bolt, or compression members 124 having a threaded shank 126, knob 128,and hex head 130 and rubber bumper 132 coupled to an end of threadedshank 126.

During coupling of frame 16 to legs 14, L-shaped arms 118 wrap aroundtube 36 of corner module 22 (or tube 94 of frame module 26) and U-shapedbase 116 receives tube 94 of frame module 26. The assembler rotates knob128 so threaded shank 126 feds through threaded aperture 134 of base116, which drives rubber bumper 132 into tube 94 and draws L-shaped arms118 into tube 36, causing tube 36 of corner module 22 to be drawn orcompressed together with tube 94 of frame module 26.

Rubber pad or resilient feet 136 are provided on one or more sides oftubes 94 of frame modules 26. As tube 36 of corner module 22 is drawntogether with tube 94 of frame modules 26, rubber feet 136 arecompressed to create grip between tubes 36, 94. As shown in FIG. 11,rubber feet 136 also support legs 14 on the floor or ground to provideclearance for collars 56, 84. When not used on legs 14, feet 136 of sideframe modules used to construct projection screen frame 16 are spacedapart from the ground and are coupled to an inward facing surface ofprojection screen frame 16. Similarly, when not used on frame members 24for projection screen frame 16, posts 162, which form projection screenframe connectors, are spaced apart from connectors of projection screen18, such as loops 164.

When leg 14 is coupled to projection screen frame 14, identical framemembers, such as frame modules 26, may be oriented in different planes.For example, a frame module 26 used to construct projection screen frame16 may be substantially horizontal or vertical and parallel to screen 18and an identical frame module 26 may be normal to screen 18.

As shown in FIG. 16B, tubes 36, 94 and the other tubes, describedherein, include a plurality of longitudinally extending grooves orrecesses 138 formed in an exterior surface of projection screen frame 16and L-shaped arms 118 include teeth 140 sized to fit within grooves 138.As L-shaped arms 118 are drawn toward tube 36 by drive 122, teeth 140are positioned further in grooves 138. Teeth 140 resist L-shaped arms118 from being pulled away from tubes 36 when drive 122 is compressingtubes 36, 94 together.

Alternative embodiment clamp 142 is shown in FIGS. 26-28. Clamp 142 issimilar to clamp 114 discussed above, but includes overlapping, L-shapedarms 144 that each have a pair of teeth 146 to fit into grooves 138 oftubes 36.

To clamp tube 36 to tube 94 as shown in FIG. 13, tubes 36, 94 arealigned as shown in FIG. 13. Next, respective clamps 114, 142 in an openposition, as shown in FIG. 27, are positioned behind tube 94. U-shapedbase 116 is then inserted over tube 94 to a position as shown in FIGS.13 and 16 so that arms 118, 144 of respective clamps 114, 142 wraparound tube 36.

During seating of clamps 114, 142 on tubes 36, 94, respective arms 118,144 swing from an open position as shown in FIG. 27 for clamp 142, to anpartially closed position as shown in FIG. 28, and to a closed positionas shown in FIG. 16 for clamp 114. This swinging results from placementof clamps 114, 142 over tube 94.

As with clamp 114, clamp 142 includes collars 148 that receive pins 120.Collars 148 have a substantially circular surface 150 with a center ofcurvature located at the center of pins 120. Collars 148 further includea substantially flat surface 152 that is positioned adjacent to tube 94when clamps 114, 142 are fully seated on tubes 94 as shown in FIG. 16for clamp 114.

When arms 144 of clamp 142 are in the open position, as shown in FIG.27, circular surfaces 150 of collars 148 are separated by distance 154that is less than width 156 of tube 94, which creates interferencebetween collars 148 and tube 94 during insertion of clamps 114, 142 overtube 94. This interference creates frictional force between circularsurfaces 150 of collars 148 and tube 94 in direction 158 that causescollars 148 and the remainder of respective arms 118, 144 of clamps 114,142 to rotate in direction 160 as base 116 is slide over tube 94 to anintermediate position, as shown in FIG. 28, and to a fully closedposition, as shown in FIGS. 13-16 for clamp 114 and FIG. 26 for clamp142. Eventually, arms 118, 144 of respective clamps 114, 142 are fullyrotated so that flat surfaces 152 of collars 148 are substantiallyparallel, which reduces or eliminates the interference and resultingfriction.

When tube 36 is aligned with tube 94, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 16, andclamp 114 (or clamp 142) is inserted over tube 94, arms 118 (or 144)automatically wrap around tube 36. As a result, arms 118, 144 ofrespective clamps 114, 142 are automatically positioned around tube 36so that drive 122 can be rotated to lock teeth 146 into grooves 138 oftube 36. To uncouple frame 16 from legs 14, drives 122 of respectiveclamps 114, 142 are rotated in the opposite direction and clamps 114,142 are pulled off tubes 36, 94.

Typically before frame 16 is attached to legs 14, projection screen 18is secured to frame 16. According to the preferred embodiment of thepresent disclosure, projection screen 18 is coupled to frame 16 using aplurality of studs or post 162 on frame 16 and loops 164 on screen 18.As shown in FIG. 3, posts 162 are provide on an outwardly facingperimeter surface 167 of frame 16. Posts 162 may also be provided onother surfaces of frame 16. Posts 162 are a preferred connector ofprojection screen frame 16 that connect with loops 164 to couple screen18 to frame 16. According to alternative embodiments of the presentdisclosure, other connector may be provided, such as snaps, velcro, orother connectors to couple screen 18 to frame 16.

Posts 162 are preferably coupled to outward facing perimeter surface 167of projection screen frame 16. However, posts 162 and the other frameconnectors disclosed herein may be coupled to other surfaces ofprojection screen frame 16, such as the forward facing surface, theinward facing surface, or the reward facing surface.

As shown in FIG. 3, posts 162 are provided at equal increments 161around frame 16 after corner modules 22 and frame modules 26 areassembled. Loops 164 are also provided at these increments 161 on theouter perimeter of screen 18 as shown in FIG. 17. According to thepreferred embodiment of the present disclosure, posts 162 and loops 164are provided at increments 161 of six inches.

To maintain the equal increments, posts 162 adjacent to ends 163, 165 ofmodules 26 and corner module 22 are positioned half the increment length161 from the respective ends 163, 165 as shown in FIG. 4. For example,the preferred increment 161 is six inches. As a result, the preferredspacing 159 of posts 162 adjacent to ends 163, 165 is three inches fromrespective ends 163, 165 so that these adjacent posts 162 are six inchesapart from each other.

Further, the length of modules 26 and corner modules 22 are preferablymultiplies of the preferred increment length. For example, as statedabove, the preferred increment length is six inches and corner modules22 and frame modules 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D, 26E, and 26F are 12, 24, 36,42, 48, 60, and 72 inches in length, respectively, each of which is amultiple of six inches. Put another way, the preferred increment length(6 inches) is a factor of each of the lengths of corner modules 22 andframe modules 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D, 26E, and 26F. As a result, the lengthof module 22, 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D, 26E, and 26F is a multiple of thespacing between posts 162. The sum of the distance 159 between one post162 to joint 222 (ex. three inches) and the distance 159 between theother post 162 adjacent to that joint 222 to joint 222 (ex. threeinches) is equal to the incremental distance 161 between all posts 162(ex. six inches). The preferred distance between posts 162 (adjacent tojoint 222) and joint 222 is one-half the distance between posts 162 (ex.3 inches is one half of six inches). According to alternativeembodiments, the distance between the posts 162 (adjacent to joint 222)and joint 222 are not equal. For example, the distance between one studto joint 222 is two inches and the distance between the other post 162and joint 222 is four inches to create a six inch distance between posts162. According to alternative embodiments of the present disclosure, thespacing of posts 162 are not at the same increment and the lengths ofcorner modules 22 and frame modules 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D, 26E, and 26F arenot multiples of a stud or other coupler spacing.

According to the preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, posts162 are shoulder rivets as shown in FIG. 16A that have an enlarged head166 and narrower shank 168. Tenons 170 of posts 162 are inserted intopre-drilled holes in the various tubes 36, 38, 42, 94 and expanded tohold posts 162 on tubes 36, 38, 42, 94. According to alternativeembodiments, other stud configurations may be provided, such as studswithout heads. As shown in FIG. 34, shoulder rivets 162 preferably havea central aperture 169 to facilitate expansion of an inner end thereof.

According to the preferred embodiment, loops 164 are preferably elasticbands, such as bungee cords. According to alternative embodiments, loops164 may be made of other materials, such as non-elastic cords, ropes,lines, etc. As shown in FIG. 18, loops 164 have first end 174 coupled toscreen 18 and a second end 176 coupled to screen 18 so that acombination of loop 164 and screen 18 cooperate to define a wholeaperture 178. According to other embodiments, loop 164 may have a rigidhook (not shown) so that a whole aperture is not defined. Loops 164preferably have pull tabs 169 to assist in pulling loops 164 over posts162 as described below.

When coupled to posts 162, portions of loops 164 are positioned forwardof frame 16 and portions are positioned outward of perimeter surface167. When posts 162 or other frame connectors are provided in locationsother than perimeter surface 167, portions of loops 164 may be locatedin other locations, such as rearward of frame 16 or inward of componentsof frame modules 22, 26. When wrapped around posts 162, loops 164 applyforce to posts 162 in a direction normal to the viewing surface ofprojection screen 18. Loops 164 also apply an outward force toprojection screen 18 to provide tension thereto.

As shown in FIG. 19, screen 18 includes a viewing surface 180 and aborder 182 that extends around the four edges of viewing surface 180 asshown in FIG. 1. Viewing surface 180 and border 182 are preferably madeof a woven or non-woven fabric, such as vinyl sheet with or withoutreinforcement. Border 182 is folded over each side of viewing surface180 and sewn or other otherwise coupled to viewing surface 180 at theoverlap therebetween. As shown in FIG. 17, border 182 includes aplurality of notches or openings 184 through which loops 164 extend.First and second ends 174, 176 of loops 164 are sewn or otherwisecoupled to border 182 resulting in loops 164 being permanently coupledto the remainder of screen 18. FIG. 18 illustrates several methods ofsewing loop 164 to border 182. From left to right, stitching 186 isparallel to border 182, stitching 188 is V-shaped with two segments 190at forty-five degree angles to border 182, and stitching 192 includestwo separated segments 194 that are at forty-five degree angles fromborder 182. Other stitching configurations may also be provided.

As shown in FIG. 24, loop 164 may also be coupled to border 182 withplate 196 sandwiched between folds of border 182. Plate 196 includes asubstantially circular body 198 and four fingers 200. Initially, plate196 is substantially flat. First and second ends 174, 176 are placedover fingers 200, which are rolled over first and second ends 174, 176to secure loop 164 to plate 196.

To couple loop 164 and plate 196 to border 182, plate 196 is positionedbetween folds of border 182 with loop 164 extending through opening 184of border 182. Rivet 202 is inserted through respective openings 205,206 of plate 196 and border 182 and rivet 202 is expanded in a customarymanner to secure plate 196 to border 182, as shown in the two right-mostexamples in FIG. 24. Plate is preferably made of metal, but may be madeof other materials.

As shown in FIG. 25, loop 164 may also be coupled to border 182 withplate or sheet 204 sandwiched between folds of border 182. Loops 164 andplate Sheet 204 includes a substantially rectangular body 207 and twotubes 208 having axes that are parallel to viewing surface 180 duringuse. Sheet 204 tapers from top 210 to bottom 212 and is preferably madeof a molded plastic material. In the preferred embodiment, loops 164 andcomponents, such as sheet 204, sheet 204′, discussed below, plate 196,cooperate to define projection screen connectors that connect theremainder of projection screen 18 to projection screen frame 16.

Because sheet 204 tapers or wedge-shaped, it becomes more flexible froman outer end to an inner end as it approaches viewing surface 180. Sheet204 includes a pair of openings 214 below tubes 208. First and secondends 174, 176 of loop 164 are provided with band clips 216 that have anoutside diameter greater than the inside diameter of tubes 208 so thatfirst and second terminal ends 174, 176 of loop 164 cannot be pulledfrom sheet 204. When fully assembled, terminal ends 174, 176 arepreferable positioned within projection screen 18. Normally, band clips216 are positioned in openings 214. To position clips 216 in openings214, at least one end of first and second ends 174, 176 without a clip216 is inserted through an upper end of a collar or tube 208 and throughthe lower end of tube 208 so that the respective end 174, 176 extendsout of the respective opening 214. Then a band clip 216, which is largerthan the opening in tubes 208, is crimped or otherwise fastened to therespective end 174, 176 so that the respective end 174, 176 of loop 164cannot be pulled from sheet 204. The other end 176, 174 may be providedwith a clip 216 in the same manner.

To couple loop 164 and sheet 204 to border 182, sheet 204 is positionedbetween folds of border 182 with loop 164 extending through opening 184of border 182. Then thinner bottom 212 of sheet 204 and the folds ofborder 182 are sewn together so stitching 220 extends through bottom 218and both folds of border 182.

An alternative embodiment sheet 204′ is shown in FIG. 30. Sheet 204′ issimilar to sheet 204, but includes an extension 205 and an aperture 209through extension 205 through which loop 164 passes. Extensions 205extend beyond posts 162 as shown to hide posts 162 from view. Border 182extends around extensions 205 so that portions of projection screen 18are positioned beyond posts 162. An upper edge 211 of projection screen18 extends above an upper portion 213 of projection screen frame 16.Similarly, side edges of projection screen 18 extend beyond sideportions 215 of projection screen frame 16 and lower edges of projectionscreen 18 extend below a lower portion 217 of projection screen frame16.

Coupling devices other than loops 164 and posts 162 may also be used tocouple screen 18 to frame 16. For example, snaps, hook-and-loop typefasteners, rope and grommets, and other coupling devices known to thoseof ordinary skill in the art may also be used.

To couple screen 18 to frame 16, screen 18 is positioned over frame 16so that loops 164 align with posts 162. Loops 164 are then stretchedover heads 166 of posts 162. When loops 164 are positioned over posts162, screen 18 is under tension provided by the stretching of elasticloops 164.

The stiffness of frame 16 depends on the number of frame modules 26coupled together to create a particular size frame 16. For example,frame 16D will normally be less stiff than frame 16A. On occasion, aframe 16 may be so large that its own weight and/or the weight of screen18 supported by frame 16 may cause deflections in frame 16 that causeundesirable results, such as waves or other distortions in screen 18.Such distortions may detract from the image display on screen 18 fromprojector 12.

To reduce such deflections, frame 16 may be provided with stiffeningbars, such as stiffening bars 218, 219 shown in FIGS. 21 and 23.Stiffening bar 218 is preferably a module 26, such as module 26F, thatis centered on joint 222 between adjacent modules 26 as shown in FIG.21. Stiffening bar 218 is coupled to frame modules 26 to reduceseparation in joint 222 and to increase the overall area moment ofinertia or beam strength of that portion of frame 16. Stiffening bar 218may be coupled to modules 26 using clamps 114, 142 or other couplingdevices, such as bolts and other coupling devices know to those ofordinary skill in the art.

Stiffening bar 219 is illustrated in FIG. 23 and includes tube 224 and apair of threaded posts or bolts 226, which each have a threaded shank228, knob 230, and hex head 232. Each corner module 22, frame module 26,and base module 98 of legs 14 includes a plurality of threaded sockets234 that are configured to receive threaded shanks 228. Sockets 234 areeach spaced apart from longitudinal edges 236 of collars 56, 84 ofcorner modules 22, modules 26, and base modules 98 by an equal distance238 so that sockets on opposite sides of joint 222 are spaced apart byequal distance 240, which is also the separation distance of shanks 228on each stiffening bar 219. Therefore, stiffening bar 219 can be used tostiffen any joint 222 defined any combination of modules 26 with othermodules 26, corner modules 22, or base modules 98 of legs 14.

To stiffen a joint 222 with stiffening bar 219, one of shanks 228 isaligned with a socket 234 on one side of joint 222 and threaded intothis socket 234 by turning knob 230 or using a tool on hex head 232.Next, the other shank 228 on stiffening bar 219 is aligned with a socket234 on the opposite side of joint 222 and threaded into this socket 234.When stiffening bars 219 are coupled to frame modules 26, joint 222further resists separation and the second moment of area of that sectionof frame 16 increases. During disassembly of frame 16, shanks 228 areremoved from sockets 234 by turning knob 230 or using a tool on hex head232.

Screen 18 may be made of a number of materials suitable for projectionscreen applications. Preferably, screen 18 has a reflectivity gain fromabout 0.4 to about 2.5. Front projections screens are preferably whiteor light gray in appearance. Rear projection screens are preferablylight gray in color and translucent to permit the projected image totransmit through the screen and be displayed to the audience. Some ofthe screens are acoustically transparent, like speaker cover fabric, topermit sound to be transmitted through the screen.

According to one embodiment, the screen includes a woven fiberglassbacking with a vinyl reflective surface laminated to the fiberglass(gain of approximately 1.0). According to one embodiment, microscopicglass beads are provided on the viewing surface (gain from about 0.5 toabout 2.5 depending on the viewing angle). According to anotherembodiment, the screen is made of a white (gain of about 1.0 or fromabout 0.4 to about 2.2 depending on the viewing angle) or light gray(gain of about 0.6 to 0.9 depending on the viewing angle) vinyl materialwithout a backing. Other suitable projection screens known to those ofordinary skill in the art may also be provided. Preferably the screen issubstantially blank so that it is substantially free of printing orother markings that noticeably de tract from the images projected on thescreen. According to one embodiment, the substantially blank screen isprovided with black borders that frame the screen for “wide screen” orother projection formats.

As shown in FIG. 22, a kit 242 may be provided that includes multiplescreens 18, such as screens 18A, 18B, 18C, multiple frame modules 26,multiple corner modules 22, multiple leg base modules 98, clamps 114 (or142), and container 246 holding the other components of kit 242. Forillustrative purpose, not all corner modules 22 and frame modules 26 areshown in container 246 that are necessary to construct the requiredframes 16. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, notenough frame modules 22, 26 are provided in container 246 to buildsufficiently sized frames 16 for all of projection screens 18 providedin container 246 at one time.

In one example, if the kit includes three projection screens 18, onlyeight corner frame modules 22 may be provided, even though twelve cornerframe modules 22 would be required to construct projection screen frames16 for all of three projection screens 18 at one time. Further, if eachprojection screen frame 16 required eight frame modules 26, onlyeighteen frame modules 18 of various different sizes might be providedeven though twenty four frame modules 26 would be required to constructprojection screen frames 16 for all three projection screens at onetime. Preferably, at least some of frame modules 26 can be used toconstruct different sized frames 18. On occasion at least some of framemodules 26 provided in the kit cannot be used to construct a projectionscreen frame 16 for one or more of screens 18 provided in the kit.However, such a frame module 26 will likely to useable for constructionanother projection screen frame 18 for one of the other projectionscreens 18 provided in the kit.

Because fewer frame modules 26 are provided that required to constructframe 16 for all projection screens 18 in the kit, there will be moreprojection screen components that corresponding projection screen framecomponents. For example, in total projection screens 18 in the kit willhave more loops 164 that the total number of posts 162 provided in theframe modules 22, 26. Furthermore, the total perimeter length of theprojection screens 18 in the kit is greater than the total length of theframe modules 22, 26. But, the total length of the frame modules 22, 26is greater than the perimeter length of at least one of the screens 18provided in the kit.

Preferably, the projection screens 18 provided in the kit are ofdifferent sizes. For example, one projection screen 18 may have aviewing surface greater than 10% larger than another projection screen18 provided in the kit.

Diagrams or instructions 244 of various frame configurations may beprovided on or with container 246. Each diagram or instruction 244 showsthe necessary size and number of modules 26 necessary to build a frame16 for a particular size screen 18. For example, left-most diagram 244Aillustrates frame 16A for use with screen 18A; diagram 244B illustratesframe 16B for use with screen 18B; middle diagram 244C illustrates frame16C for use with screen 18C, diagram 244D illustrates frame 16D for usewith screen 18D, and right-most diagram 244E illustrates a larger framefor use with a larger screen (not shown). In diagram 244, the variousdifferent sized frame modules 26 may be color coded, number, or providedwith other identifiers. Similarly, each frame module 26 may be providedwith matching color-coding, numbers, or other identifiers. For example,frame module 26F may be shown in red in diagram 244 and red marking isprovided on frame module 26F. Whereas, frame module 26E may be shown ingreen in diagram 244 and green marking is provided on frame module 26E.Kit

According to one method of using projection screen apparatus 10, adistributor, such as an equipment lessor, provides kit 242 at a locationfor a receiver, such as a lessee. In one example, an equipment lessorrents kit 242 to a lessee for use at a tradeshow. Upon receipt of kit242 by the lessee from the lessor, the lessee can determine which sizescreen 18 is best suited for their need. Upon selecting the appropriatesize screen 18, the lessee selects the appropriate size frame 16 thatmatches the selected screen 18. For example, upon receipt of kit 242,the lessee may determine that screen 18C is the right size and formatfor their needs. The lessee then selects frame 16C to construct andreferences diagram 244C to determine which frame modules 26 to connectto corner modules 22 to construct frame 16C.

Normally, kit 242 will include enough modules 26 to build any one offrames 16 for each different screen 18 provided in kit 242. For example,if kit 242 includes screens 18A-18D, at least two 26A modules, two 26Cmodules, six 26D modules, ten 26E modules, four 26F modules, and fourcorner modules 22 would be provided so that any one of frames 16A-16Dcould be constructed to support screens 18A-18D.

However, each kit 242 will normally not include enough modules 26 tobuild each frame 16 for each different screen 18 at the same time. Forexample, it would require at least two 26A modules, two 26C modules,fourteen 26D modules, twenty 26E modules, ten 26F modules, and sixteencorner modules 22 to build all of frames 18A-18D to support screens18A-18D all at the same time. Kit 242 would not normally include all ofthese components.

Modules 26 from kit 242 that are not used to construct a frame 16 may beused for other purposes. For example, if frame 16D is built, six of theten frame modules 26E, two of the four frame modules 26D, and all (two)of the frame modules 26A that are not used to construct from 16D may beused to construct legs 14 or as stiffening bars 218.

On occasion, one or more of the components of legs 14 and frame 16 thatcan be built from kit 242 or otherwise may become damaged. As a result,kit 242 may include an extra of each of frame modules 26A, 26B, 26C,26D, 26E, 26F, corner module 22, and base module 98. If the preferredscreen 18 is damaged, a smaller or larger screen 18 in kit 242 can beused. For example if screen 18B is preferred, but damaged, either screen18A, 18C, or 18D may be used with a matching frame (i.e. frame 16A, 16B,or 16D).

Upon return of kit 242 to the lessor can replace the damaged componentof legs 14 or frame 16 without having to return the leg or frame 16 tothe original manufacturer for repair. The lessor can replace the damagedcomponent from stock on hand, from another kit 242, or order areplacement component from the original manufacturer.

On occasion, new screen formats are created that have different ratiosof height to width than previous formats. When such a new format iscreated, kits 242 can be updated for the new format by providing newframe modules 26 of sufficient length to satisfy the new format. Forexample, if a wider format is created, a longer module 26 can bemanufactured and provided in an existing kit 242. Along with the new,longer module 26, an updated diagram 244 showing the proper combinationof frame modules 26 is provided to the assembler of the new format frame16. With the new diagram, the assembler knows which of the frame modules26, including the longer module 26, to assemble together to create thenew format frame 16.

On occasion, it is possible that new combinations of existing framemodules 26 may result in the new format. For example, it may be possibleto replace frame module 26A in frame 16B with frame module 26B to createa format having a taller profile. Along with any additional, requiredframe module 26B, an updated diagram 244 showing the proper combinationof frame modules 26 is provided to the assembler of the new format frame16. With the new diagram, the assembler knows which of the frame modules26, including frame module 26B, to assemble together to create the newformat frame 16.

In some uses, projection screen apparatus 10 is not provided in a kitthat includes multiple screens 18. In such a situation, only enoughframe components necessary to construct a frame 16 that supports theprovided screen 18 are provided. Spare frame components to build thisframe 16 may be provided in the event that one of the frame componentsbreaks or otherwise needs repair or replacement.

Preferably, instructions for the assembly, installation, and/or use ofprojection screen apparatus 10 are provided with projection screenapparatus 10 or otherwise communicated to permit a person or machine toassemble, install and/or use projection screen apparatus 10. Suchinstructions may include a description of any or all portions ofprojection screen apparatus 10 and/or any or all of the above-describedassembly, installation, and use of projection screen apparatus 10 orcomponents of projection screen apparatus 10. The instructions may beprovided on separate papers and/or on the packaging in which projectionscreen apparatus 10 is sold or shipped. These instructions may also beprovided over the Internet or other communication system. Furthermore,the instructions may be embodied as text, pictures, audio, video, or anyother medium or method of communicating instructions known to those ofordinary skill in the art.

A method of constructing projection screen apparatus 10 may include thesteps of receiving at least one pre-manufactured projection screen 18and a plurality of pre-manufactured frame modules, such as corner framemodule 22 and frame module 26, selecting a subset of the plurality ofpre-manufactured frame modules 22, 26 sufficient to construct aprojection screen frame 16 corresponding to at least onepre-manufactured projection screen 18, constructing projection screenframe 16 using the subset of the plurality of pre-manufactured framemodules 22, 26, and coupling pre-manufactured projection screen 18 toprojection screen frame 16. A pre-manufactured projection screen 18 maybe cut to size from a larger piece of material and have suitableconnectors, such as connectors formed by loops 164 and sheets 204,attached thereto or suitable prepared to receive separate connectors.Pre-manufactured frame modules may be cut to length and provided withends that mate or otherwise couple to adjacent frame modules 22, 26.

A method of facilitating constructing projection screen apparatus 10 maybe provided. The method includes the steps of receiving projectionscreen 18, and a plurality of pre-manufactured frame modules, such asframe modules 22, 26, which may be sent from a party such as amanufacturer, rental dealer or otherwise, selecting a subset of theplurality of pre-manufactured frame modules sufficient to construct aprojection screen frame 16 corresponding to the at least onepre-manufactured projection screen 18, providing the subset of theplurality of pre-manufactured frame modules 22, 26 to another party,such as a rental dealer or an end user, and providing instructions 244on the construction of projection screen frame 16 from thepre-manufactured frame modules to the party.

Another method of facilitating construction of a projection screenapparatus 10 may be provided. The method includes the steps of providinga projection screen 18 requiring a projection screen frame 16 of apredetermined size to support the projection screen 18 during use,providing a plurality of frame modules greater than the number ofprojection frame modules 22, 26 necessary to construct the projectionscreen frame 18, sending the projection screen 16 to another party, andsending the plurality of frame modules 22, 26 to the party for use inconstructing the projection screen frame 16 to support the projectionscreen 18 during use. This method may be performed by a manufacturer, arental dealer, or another party.

Another method of facilitating construction of a projection screenapparatus 10 may be provided including the steps of collecting aplurality of projection screens 18 requiring a plurality of projectionscreen frames 16 of a predetermined size to support the plurality ofprojection screens 18 during use, collecting a plurality of projectionscreen frame modules 22, 26 less than the number of projection screenframe modules 22, 26 necessary to construct the plurality of projectionscreen frames 16 at one time, providing the plurality of projectionscreens 18 to another party, such as a rental dealer or end user, andproviding the plurality of frame modules 22, 26 to the party for use inconstructing at least one of the plurality of projection screen frames16.

A method of constructing a projection screen apparatus 10 may beprovided. The method includes the steps of providing a projection screen18 and a plurality of frame modules, such as frame modules 22, 26. Theplurality of frame modules 22, 26 may include at least two identicalframe modules 22, 26. The method may further include constructing aprojection screen frame 16 with the plurality of frame modules 22, 26including at least one identical frame module, supporting the projectionscreen 18 with the projection screen frame 16, constructing at least oneleg, such as leg 14, with the plurality of frame modules 24 including atleast one identical frame module 26, and supporting the projectionscreen frame 16 with the at least one leg.

An addition to projection screen frame 16, other components may beprovided to support a drape 99. As shown in FIG. 31, a drape support 248is provided that couples to posts 162. Drape support 248 includes a body250, preferably molded from plastic, and a magnet 252. Body 250 includesa recess or slot 254 having a wide portion 256 sized to receive head 166of post 162 and a narrow portion 258 sized to receive shank 168 of post162 as shown in FIGS. 32 and 33. Magnet 252 may be molded into body 250.When drape support 248 is coupled to post 162, magnet 252 ismagnetically attracted to ferrous metal in post 162. Body 250 includesan extension 260 to which drape 99 is attached as shown in FIG. 32.

Multiple drape supports 248 are typically provided on lower portion 217of frame 18 to provide drape 99 extending under projection screen 18.However, draper supports 248 may be coupled to posts 162 on top portion213 and side portions 215 of projection screen frame 18.

Drape support 248 is one of several accessories that couple to post 162in addition to a loop 164 being coupled to the respective post 162. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 32, posts 162 couples to loop 164 and to drapesupport 248.

Another such accessory that also couples to posts 162 is anotherprojection screen 18. As shown in FIG. 34, a pair of loops 164 arecoupled to a single posts 162. Thus, one projection screen 18 ispositioned on one side of frame 16 and another projection screen iscoupled to the opposite side of frame 16. As a result, two projectionscreens 18 can be supported by a single projection screen frame 16. Tomask the back of a frame 16 sheet of material may, such as a projectionscreen or other sheet of material.

Yet other accessories that also couple to posts 162 while loops 164 arecoupled to posts 162 are shown in FIG. 35. U-shaped drape support 262couple to posts 162 of top portion 213 of projection screen frame 18 andL-shaped drape 264 couples to posts 162 of side portions 215 ofprojection screen frame 18. Each drape support 262, 264 includes aplurality of posts 162′. Drape 99 may be provided with loops 164 thatwrap around posts 162′ to support drape 99 above projection screen 18 orto the sides of projection screen 18.

Similar to drape support 248, drape support 262 includes two recesses266 having wide portions 268 sized to receive head 166 of post 162 andnarrow portions 269 sized to receive shank 168 of post 162 as shown inFIG. 36. Recess 266 further includes a loop-receiving portion 270 whichallows loop 164 to couple screen 18 to post 162 frame 16 while drapesupport 262 is coupled to the same post 162.

Multiple drape supports 262 are typically provided on top portion 213 offrame 18 to provide drape 99 extending above projection screen 18.However, draper supports 262 may be coupled to posts 162 on bottomportion 217 and side portions 215 of projection screen frame 18.

L-shaped drape support 264 includes recesses or slots 272, one shown inFIG. 37, also sized to receive posts 162. Recess 272 has a wide bottom274 sized to allow head 166 of post 162 therethrough and a narrow top276 sized to receive shank 168 and not allow head 166 to passtherethrough. During assembly, heads 166 of posts 166 are aligned withwide bottoms 274 of recesses 272 of L-shaped drape support 264 and heads166 are inserted into L-shaped drape support 264. L-shaped drape support264 is then lowered to that shanks 168 are positioned in narrow top 276.Because heads 166 cannot be removed through narrow top 276, drapesupport 264 is coupled to frame 16. To remove drape support 264, drapesupport is pushed upward. According to an alternative embodiment of theL-shaped drape support 264, upper bar 278 slides horizontally along theremainder of L-shaped drape support 264. Upper bar 278 slides in a track(not shown) provided below upper bar 278. The sliding connection allowsposts 162′ to translate from side to side.

While this invention has been described as having an exemplary design,the present invention may be further modified within the spirit andscope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended tocover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using itsgeneral principles. Further, this application is intended to cover suchdepartures from the present disclosure as come within known or customarypractice in the art to which this invention pertains.

1. A method of constructing a projection screen apparatus including thesteps of: providing a projection screen and a plurality of framemodules, the plurality of frame modules including at least two identicalframe modules, constructing a projection screen frame with the pluralityof frame modules including at least one identical frame module,supporting the projection screen with the projection screen frame,constructing at least one leg with the plurality of frame modulesincluding at least one identical frame module, and supporting theprojection screen frame with the at least one leg.
 2. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the plurality of frame modules include resilient feet,wherein the step of supporting the projection screen frame results in atleast one of the resilient feet of a frame module used in theconstruction of the at least one leg contacting the ground and at leastone of the resilient feet of a frame module used in the construction ofthe projection screen frame being spaced apart from the ground.
 3. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the projection screen includes a plurality ofconnectors and the plurality of frame modules includes a plurality ofconnectors adapted to couple with the plurality of connectors of theprojection screen, the step of supporting the projection screen resultsin the connectors of the projection screens being coupled to theconnectors of the plurality of frame modules used to construct theprojection screen frame, and during use of the projection screen, theconnectors of the plurality of frame modules used to construct the atleast one leg are spaced apart from the connectors of the projectionscreen.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein at least of one of theidentical frame modules extends in a vertical direction during use ofthe projection screen apparatus and at least one of the identical framemodules extends in a direction normal to a viewing surface of theprojection screen during use of the projection screen apparatus. 5-135.(canceled)
 136. A projection screen apparatus including: a projectionscreen adapted to display an image projected onto the projection screen,a projection screen frame supporting the projection screen, and at leastone leg supporting the projection screen frame on the ground, the atleast one leg having a plurality of frame modules including a horizontalmember and a vertical member that is interchangeable with the horizontalmember.
 137. The projection screen apparatus of claim 136, wherein theleg includes a plurality of junctions defined by adjacent frame modulesthat are coupled together with mating connections, the total number ofmating connections of the plurality of frame modules being more thantwice the number of junctions.
 138. The projection screen apparatus ofclaim 136, wherein the horizontal member includes a first end having aconnection and a second, terminal end having a connection that ismateable with the first end, and the vertical member includes a firstend identical to the second, terminal end of the horizontal member. 139.The projection screen apparatus of claim 136, wherein the horizontalmember includes a first end having a connection and a second, terminalend having a connection that is mateable with the first end, and thevertical member includes a first end mateable with the second, terminalend of the horizontal member.
 140. The projection screen apparatus ofclaim 136, wherein the horizontal member includes at least one resilientfoot supported on the ground and the vertical member includes at leastone resilient foot identical to the resilient foot of the horizontalmember. 141-163. (canceled)
 164. A projection screen apparatusincluding: a projection screen adapted to display an image projectedonto the projection screen, a projection screen frame including aplurality of frame modules supporting the projection screen, and atleast one leg including a plurality of frame modules supporting theprojection screen frame on the ground, at least one of the frame modulesof the at least one leg being interchangeable with the plurality offrame modules of the projection screen frame.
 165. The projection screenapparatus of claim 164, wherein at least one of the plurality of framemodules of the projection screen frame is identical to at least one ofthe plurality of frame modules of the leg.
 166. The projection screenapparatus of claim 164, wherein the plurality of frame modules of theprojection screen frame include a male connector and a female connectorthat cooperate to couple adjacent frame modules of the projection screenframe together, the plurality of frame modules of the leg include maleconnectors identical to the male connectors of the plurality of framemodules of the projection screen frame.
 167. The projection screenapparatus of claim 164, wherein each of the plurality of frame modulesof the projection screen frame includes a pair of connectors and each ofthe pair of connectors is positioned adjacent to a connector of anadjacent frame module of the projection screen frame, each of theplurality of frame modules of the at least one leg includes a pair ofconnectors and at least one of the pair of connectors is not positionedadjacent to another connector of the plurality of frame modules of theat least one leg.
 168. The projection screen apparatus of claim 167,wherein the projection screen includes a plurality of connectors, theplurality of frame modules include a plurality of connectors coupled tothe plurality of connectors of the projection screen frame, and theplurality of frame modules of the legs include connectors adapted tocouple to connectors of the projection screen.
 169. The method of claim1, wherein the at least two identical frame modules have a substantiallyrectangular outer profile.
 170. The method of claim 2, wherein at leastone of the resilient feet of a frame module used in the construction ofthe at least one leg is positioned between the at least one leg and theprojection screen frame.
 171. The method of claim 3, wherein theconnectors of the projection screen include loops and the connectors ofthe plurality of frame modules include posts.
 172. The method of claim3, wherein the plurality of frame modules include resilient feet, andthe connectors of the plurality of frame modules are positioned oppositethe resilient feet of the plurality of frame modules.
 173. Theprojection screen apparatus of claim 140, wherein the at least oneresilient foot of the vertical member is positioned between the verticalmember and the projection screen frame.